A summer acquisition from neighbours Guiseley, goalkeeper Drench has years of experience competing at the top end of the Vanarama National League North table. The first signing under Billy Heath, Drench’s announcement was greeted with widespread delight from most Town fans.

He began his career at Blackburn Rovers but never made a first team appearance for the Lancashire club. His other former clubs include Morecambe and Southport but it was in West Yorkshire where Drench really established himself as a top non-league ‘keeper, making over 200 appearances for the Lions.

Drench is under no illusions at the challenge ahead and what is expected by the fans. “It’s going to be difficult but it is difficult every year,” he said. “The minimum expectation is for us to make the play-offs, but we want to win the league.”